Space Systems Researcher​/Engineer; Tech

About the Group

The Space Systems Analysis and Test Group aims to solve our nation’s most demanding space-related security challenges backed by validated analysis, prototyping, and field demonstrations. We work with senior leaders in the US Space Force, Air Force, and Intelligence Community to provide unbiased analysis and innovative solutions that directly shape US national defense strategy. Our technical staff are skilled scientists and engineers with deep and broad space systems experience, eager to be on the leading edge of technology that will chart our nation’s future in space.

All staff grasp new technologies, dissect complex problems, and communicate solutions to a spectrum of audiences.

Staff members often fill different roles simultaneously for programs and are encouraged to diversify their expertise. Some examples of current Technical Staff areas of expertise include:

• Computational Physics – Develop modeling software for in-house astrodynamics toolkits. Topics include satellite propagation, guidance laws, sensors & observations, state estimation, tracking, etc.
• Hardware Prototyping – Design and produce developmental hardware systems and sensors. Design and conduct measurement campaigns using prototypes in support of analysis studies.
• Program Management – Communicate with sponsors to develop a technical strategy to solve research questions. Coordinate and manage a team of staff at a variety of technical levels to implement solutions.
• New Study Development – Understand broad US architecture and directions through sponsor and community engagements. Develop studies to support needed solutions and gap analysis.
• Signal Processing – Design tools and pipelines to process observational data from optical, radar, and other instruments. Analyze collected data and compare to theoretical models.

Candidates are not expected to have previous experience in all of these areas, but should have the technical background sufficient to learn them. A successful candidate will have a strong technical background that can be leveraged for broad analysis, simulation, and testing capabilities. The highly collaborative and multidisciplinary nature of the group provides opportunities for Technical Staff to work on a variety of projects over time and explore new interests as they develop.

• PhD in a STEM field (including, but not limited to: Physics, Math, Computer Science, Aerospace, Astrodynamics, Engineering, etc.)
• OR Master’s degree with 5 or more years relevant experience
• Demonstrated ability to think broadly and develop unique insights
• Demonstrated ability to communicate complex concepts and form clear, concise narratives
• Experience with an object-oriented programming language
• Willingness to work in person on-site during standard business hours
• Ability to pass a pre-employment background investigation and willingness to obtain and maintain a Top Secret level security clearance

• Self-motivation – Ability to work independently with responsible time management.
• Collaboration – Ability to work in teams, particularly multi-disciplinary teams.

Recent Graduate Hiring Range: $145,200-$170,000

Experienced Hiring Range: $145,200-$220,000

Disclaimer: MIT Lincoln Laboratory provides a typical hiring range as a good faith estimate of what we reasonably expect to offer for this position at the time of posting. The final salary offered to a selected candidate will depend on various factors, including—but not limited to—the scope and responsibilities of the role, the candidate’s experience, skills and training, internal equity considerations and applicable legal requirements.

This range reflects base salary only and does not include additional forms of compensation or benefits.

At MIT Lincoln Laboratory, our exceptional career opportunities include many outstanding benefits to help you stay healthy, feel supported, and enjoy a fulfilling work-life balance. Benefits offered to employees include:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans
• MIT-funded pension
• Matching 401K
• Paid leave (including vacation, sick, parental, military, etc.)
• Tuition reimbursement and continuing…